After the initial news release, the images would then be distributed on social media outlets like Twitter and on the couple's website.

"The whole point of these photos is that as many people have access to them who need to and we will find the easiest way of doing that," the source says.

It means that the Duke, Duchess and Prince of Cambridge would not pose for a professional photographer, or have to welcome someone into the Middleton family home (where Kate and George have been staying while William returned to work).

But should the new parents decide to go the traditional route of sitting for a professional portrait, a wire service will be invited to snap the photos.

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